What are the Symptoms of a Heart Attack?

• Chest pain, pressure, or tightness
• Pain spreading to arms, neck, jaw, or back
• Shortness of breath
• Cold sweats
• Nausea or vomiting
• Lightheadedness or dizziness

These symptoms may appear gradually and worsen over hours or days.

What are the Symptoms of Cardiac Arrest?

• Sudden collapse
• No pulse
• No breathing
• Loss of consciousness

Cardiac arrest strikes without warning, CPR and defibrillation must begin immediately.

Which is more fatal, heart attack or cardiac arrest?

• Heart Attack: Serious but often survivable if treated quickly.
• Cardiac Arrest: Immediately life-threatening, with over 90% of cases outside hospitals resulting in death without prompt intervention.

Importantly, a severe heart attack can trigger cardiac arrest, making early recognition crucial.

When to do CPR and How?

• Heart Attack: If the person is awake and breathing, keep them calm, call emergency services, and give aspirin (if safe). CPR is not required unless they collapse.
• Cardiac Arrest: If unresponsive and not breathing, start CPR immediately and use an AED if available.

Causes and Risk Factors Of Heart Attack and Cardiac Arrest

Treatment Options

Heart Attack

• Medications: Blood thinners, clot-busting drugs
• Angioplasty & Stenting: Opens blocked arteries
• Bypass Surgery (CABG): Redirects blood flow around severe blockages
• Lifestyle Changes: Diet, exercise, smoking cessation, weight management

Cardiac Arrest

• CPR: Maintains blood flow
• Defibrillation (AED): Restores heart rhythm
• Advanced Care: Drugs, airway management, hospital support
• Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator (ICD) for long-term rhythm monitoring

Prevention: How to Protect Your Heart

• Eat a balanced diet rich in whole grains, lean protein, fruits, and vegetables
• Exercise at least 150 minutes per week
• Manage stress effectively
• Avoid smoking and limit alcohol
• Schedule regular heart screenings for cholesterol, blood pressure, and heart rhyth

With expert care, early intervention, and the right lifestyle choices, you can significantly reduce your risk of heart emergencies.